Granvlle Hot Licks Bluesfest

The Bluesfest is a free event organized by the Granville Federation for the Appreciation of the Blues. Donations from sponsors, which range from local corporations to blues-loving individuals, help offset some of the costs of putting on the event, which annually brings blues musicians from near and far to play. East Broadway between Main and Prospect streets is closed to traffic, with a stage set up at the west end and a beverage tent at the east end. In between, there’s plenty of room to set up lawn chairs, and even to dance. It’s a family-friendly event that draws thousands.

Co-founders Tom Carroll and Gerry Martin are as busy as ever making plans for the current year’s event, but along with scores of volunteers, they haven’t had to alter the event significantly from year to year.

That the event runs smoothly every year is no accident. Tom Carroll, a musician himself, said, “I know what it’s like to be at these sorts of festivals, and to see things go haywire. So I make certain that everything runs smoothly first. We at GFAB are trying to create an ideal situation as possible for performers and listeners.”

GFAB is a 501(c)(3) organization, and donations are tax deductible. For more information about the event, call Tom Carroll at (740)587-6616 or visit the GFAB web site: http://www.freewebs.com/hotlicks/